Bracco Italiano
Quick Summary
Athletic and affectionate hunting companion ideal for active owners. Combines working ability with family-friendly temperament. Requires significant exercise and space.
Contents
Weight Range
55-90 lbs
♂ Male: 55-90 lbs
♀ Female: 55-90 lbs
Height Range
53-69 inches
♂ Male: 21-27"
♀ Female: 21-27"
Life Expectancy
10-14 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #85
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Miscellaneous Class
Originally bred for Dating back to the 4th-5th century in Italy, these dogs served as versatile hunting companions for nobility, excelling in pointing and retrieving game in varied terrain
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 21"-27" |
| Female Height | 21"-27" |
| Male Weight | 55-90 lbs |
| Female Weight | 55-90 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 2/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include $1,500-3,000 for purchase, plus setup expenses. Monthly costs average $150-200 for food, grooming, and routine care. Annual veterinary expenses typically range from $500-1,000.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Enthusiastic and intelligent, the Bracco Italiano displays a keen hunting instinct balanced with a gentle, affectionate nature. High energy levels require proper outlets, while their responsive temperament makes them excellent family companions.
Social Needs
Highly social breed requiring significant human interaction and companionship. Generally good with other dogs and pets. Can experience separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods.
Breed Overview
Majestic and powerful, the Bracco Italiano showcases a distinctive noble head, pendulous lips, and pronounced stop. Their muscular build combines with an elegant gait, featuring a characteristic extended trot. The short, dense coat comes in white with orange or chestnut markings. Alert eyes and long ears complement their intelligent, enthusiastic expression.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Excellent hunting abilities
- ✓ Affectionate family companion
- ✓ Intelligent and trainable
- ✓ Good with children
Cons
- ✗ Needs extensive exercise
- ✗ Can be stubborn
- ✗ Moderate drooling
- ✗ Regular grooming required
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Affectionate, Intelligent, Enthusiastic |
| Energy Level | Energetic |
| Trainability | Easy Training |
| Grooming Needs | Occasional Bath/Brush |
| Shedding | Occasional |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 60-90 minutes of daily exercise including long walks, running, and hunting-style activities. High-intensity exercise should be balanced with mental stimulation through tracking or scent work. Thrives with varied physical challenges.
Diet & Nutrition
Adult Bracco Italiano requires 3-4 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Consider protein-rich diet suitable for active hunting breeds. Monitor portion sizes to prevent obesity.
Feed 3-4 cups of high-quality dry food daily, split into two meals. Choose protein-rich formulas suitable for active breeds. Adjust portions based on age, weight, and activity level. Fresh water should always be available.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Best suited for homes with large fenced yards. Adapts well to suburban or rural settings with ample space for exercise. Tolerates various climates but needs indoor access during extreme weather.
Requires minimum yard space of 500 square feet. Thrives in rural or suburban settings with room to run. Can adapt to large homes with adequate exercise but not suited for apartment living.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Noble hunting dogs of ancient Italian lineage, Bracchi Italiani were developed by aristocratic families for versatile hunting. Their distinctive appearance and hunting prowess made them highly valued among Italian nobility.
Historical Purpose
Dating back to the 4th-5th century in Italy, these dogs served as versatile hunting companions for nobility, excelling in pointing and retrieving game in varied terrain.
Fun Fact
Their unique extended trot gait was specifically bred for covering large hunting areas efficiently.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Regular ear cleaning needed due to long ears. Moderate exercise requirements must be met daily. Hip and eye health should be monitored throughout life.